My nominations:
2018-2019: Probably the best for me; Liverpool’'s tight escape from the group stage and then the Anfield comeback. Tottenham’s tie with City and then coming back against Ajax. Ajax devouring Real fearlessly. Only thing weak was that boring final.
2009-2010: This one had absolute bangers; Man Utd vs Milan and Man Utd vs Bayern were the absolute standouts. Inter’s journey was pretty badass as well, especially against Barcelona. Seeing Jose eating Pep like that was pretty special.
2011-2012: Chelsea’s journey was even more badass considering they were in such a messy season. Also, Bayern somehow knocking out one of the greatest Real sides to ever exist. And Chelsea dispatching Messi in his best year. Plus, the final was amazing.
2021-2022: I would include this one because it was hilarious; Ancelotti dropping his eyebrow and his side would automatically pull the most unlikely comeback to ever exist. Also, Villareal’s deep run was pretty amazing, absolute giant slayers.
2003-2004: This one, I admit that I was to young to remember but damn!! Porto and Deportivo knocking out those absolute monster squads that Man Utd and Milan had. Also, Monaco was fire, and coupled with the fact that Greece won the Euros that year, I think it’s safe to say that 2004 was the year of the underdogs.
I lean more towards the late 2000s seasons but yeah thinking about it 2018/2019 is probably the overall best champions league season I’ve ever seen for the ‘neutral’ fan.
The group stage was chaotic. RO16, Quarters & Semis all delivered incredible memorable moments, games and performances.
As you said, only thing that sucked was the final ironically. Liverpool was the rightful winner of the tournament but it would’ve just been that cherry on top if the last game was also awesome.
Had they faced say Ajax (who should’ve made it tbh). If the brackets changed Barca or Man City would’ve been great finalists against Liverpool as well.